Sharon J. Hoekendorf
Sharon J. Hoekendorf, 71, of Downers Grove. Cherished daughter of the late Leonard and Marian Hoekendorf. Survived by her brother Kenneth (Rosann) Hoekendorf. Devoted aunt of Kristen, Donald, and Rick. Cousin of Roberta Light, Kimberly Ogle, the late Randall Ogle, and the late Scott Ogle. Visitation Tuesday, January 26th from 1:30-2:30 p.m., Hallowell & James Funeral Home (limit 9 people), 301 75th Street, Downers Grove. Graveside service Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. at Clarendon Hills Cemetery. There will be a Zoom Memorial Service on Thursday Feb 4th at 7 p.m. Click link to join service.
Ms. Hoekendorf was the best teacher I ever had. She cared so much about her students. I enjoyed seeing her over the years after graduating and telling her about what was going on in my life. She was always interested and eager to hear what I was up to. What a wonderful person and a dear friend. I’m deeply saddened that her time with us is up and she has moved on. We could all use some of her endless cheer and fun personality right now. So sorry to say goodbye. R.I.P. Ms. Hoekendorf
I knew Ms. Hoekendorf from Fairmount elementary school. Even though she was never my teacher, she was still my favorite teacher. She’d often give me jolly ranchers if I stopped by her classroom after school, as well as tell me silly stories about my brother and his friends. She always loved her students and never forgot them. Once she was no longer at Fairmount, I would visit with her every year at Christmas time. We’d catch up on what was happening in my life. She saw me grow from a small child into a college graduate and eventual adult. Ms. Hoekendorf lit up every room she was in. During these difficult times, I often think of her warmth and kindness. I miss her terribly and wish I could’ve spent more time with her. Still, I cherish the moments we shared together. May she rest in peace.
As a fellow educator, I worked with Sharon at Fairmount Elementary, and saw her occasionally afterward when she resided at Oak Trace. She always managed a cheery manner and friendly word. Each of us spent part of our teen years in Western Springs and often compared notes. May Sharon Rest In Peace.
Sharon’s smile and laughter will always be remembered by her former students and friends. Her encouragement of all and welcoming spirits were just part of what made Sharon a special individual. God Bless You Sharon. Rest in Peace.
I knew Sharon when we were both members of the West Suburban Alumnae Association of Kappa Delta. She was a wonderful and generous member. I still have one of her recipes for a delicious desert she brought to a meeting years ago. Her caring ways were what inspired us to donate school supplies every year to a local shelter, a tradition that continues to this day. As a fellow teacher, I enjoyed seeing and chatting with her at our monthly meetings. God bless Sharon, and all those who mourn her.
I had the honor of working with Sharon when I was the social worker at Fairmount. She was always cheerful, accepting and positive about her many students. In return her students adored her as one of their first primary teachers.. She undoubtedly shaped many young lives in a positive way. Later after moving to Oak Trace I had many great visits with her and also when she she would attend her beloved First Methodist Church. I celebrate Sharon’s life and the ray of sunshine she was to so many. Thanks be to God for Sharon.